During the industrialisation of egg laying in Spain in the 1950's the Pita Pinta almost became extinct. Recovery of the breed began between 1980 and 1990. A breeders' association, the Asociación de Criadores de la Pita Pinta Asturiana, was founded in 2003; its 52 members have a total of 1842 birds.(as of 2013) A flock record was established in 2005; at the end of 2013, a total of 2172 birds were recorded.
La Pita Pinta could be related to the Basque Eusko-Oiloa and to central and north-European chickens as well as to British. The roxa variety of the Pita Pinta presents evident similarities with the marradune variety of the Basque Eusko-Oiloa.
It is a eumetric animal, incomparable with other chickens, medium-sized, with a rather short tail; eyes of a light color usually amber or grey, medium-sized comb and wattles, smaller in females, and red earlobes. Legs and beak are yellow with black spots.
Medium-sized and a good forager. If kept in in semi-liberty they have a well developed maternal character.

La Pita Pinta has a dual ability: eggs and meat. Traditionally the main function of the Pita Pinta in the Asturian farmhouse was egg production so this feature is especially outstanding despite its remarkable size, which also led to the chicken being pastured for it's good quality meat. The dish 'pitu caleya' is a traditional chicken dish served in a rich cognac gravy, typical for the Asturias region.
Pita Pinta negra pullet.
The Pita Pinta has great ornamental value due to the special characteristics of its plumage and plays an interesting role in agro-tourism establishments in Northern Spain.